Lot #431. Jaques Hartston Tournament Chessmen, Circa 1895

Jaques Hartston Tournament Chessmen

Offered here is a fine set of Antique Jaques Hartston Tournament Chessmen, circa 1895. These authentic Staunton chess pieces are Boxwood and Ebony. The King stands 3-1/2″ tall with a 1-3/4″ diameter base. The chessmen rest atop green English baize and are nicely weighted. The Knights are of the Hartston style. Both Kings are stamped “Jaques London ” on the rim of the base of their bases. The Kingside Rooks and Knights are stamped with a red King’s crown on their summits. This King height is often referred to as the “Tournament Size.”  The Knights are very finely carved. The Jaques Hartston Tournament Chessmen are housed in their original Mahogany hinge-top box with a semi-mortise lock set and correct green label, according to the Camaratta Codex of Jaques Labels. These sets were produced between 1890 and 1899. The chessmen and box are in excellent condition. One white Bishop’s miter appears to have been repaired. The chessmen play and display best on a chessboard with 2-1/8″ or 2-1/4″ squares. The antique chessboard shown is not included. A suitable chessboard can be found here. An extensive inventory of antique and contemporary chess timers can be found by clicking here. Finally, a brief history of the John Jaques company and the Staunton chessmen can be found here and here.